Namibia: BalancingTradition and Modernity

Down the ages, children have been regarded as pillars of societal structure, embodying the cultural values and traditions passed down through generations.

However, contemporary society presents a stark contrast: An erosion of respect for elders, teachers and cultural norms have become pressing concerns. Namibia, like many nations, is grappling with a delicate balance between preserving its rich heritage and embracing modern advancements.
A question that looms large is whether we are nurturing responsible and productive citizens, or whether we are inadvertently undermining the very foundations upon which our ancestors built our societies.

Historically, Namibian parents instilled in their children religious principles and other behavioural cultural tenets.

This helped equip them with a moral compass, fostering a sense of responsibility and respect, enabling them to navigate the complexities of life while preserving their cultural identity.

SOCIAL MEDIA

In an era of technological advancements and global interconnectedness, it is important to strike a balance between tradition and modernity.

Embracing progress is essential but it is equally important to teach children the value of their cultural heritage.

To achieve this equilibrium, parents, educators and community leaders must work together to promote cultural awareness and understanding.

This can be achieved in various ways, such as incorporating traditional stories and customs in the curriculum, organising cultural events and encouraging intergenerational dialogue.

In today’s digital age, children are increasingly immersed in the world of social media.

Many of our youth spend hours scrolling through feeds, watching videos and engaging with online communities.

While social media can offer numerous benefits, such as connecting with friends and family, it can also profoundly affect young people’s thinking, behaviour and, ultimately, their future.

A concerning trend is the number of children who spend their nights watching movies or listening to music, often late into the night.

This can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, difficulty in concentrating and mood swings.

Moreover, the content they consume can significantly influence their world view, values and aspirations.

INFLUENCERS

Social media platforms are often filled with unrealistic portrayals of beauty, wealth and success.

This can create unrealistic expectations and contribute to feelings of inadequacy among young people.

Also, constant exposure to negative news and online bullying can have a detrimental impact on their mental health.

Parental guidance, once considered a cornerstone of child development, is often viewed as outdated or even oppressive by today’s youth.

Further, the constant barrage of information and opinions on social media can make it difficult for parents to connect with their children and provide guidance.

As a result, many young people turn to online influencers and communities for advice and validation.

It is essential for parents and educators to become more aware of the potential pitfalls of excessive social media use and to be proactive in protecting young people.

This includes setting limits on screen time, monitoring online activity and engaging in honest conversations about the potential consequences of unhealthy social media habits.

It is also crucial to promote critical thinking and media literacy skills among young people.

Teaching them to evaluate information critically and recognise biases in online content can empower them to make informed decisions and develop a healthy relationship with technology.

YOUTH SUICIDES

The alarming rise in youth suicide rates is a global phenomenon.

A contributing factor is the complex relationship between parental guidance and adolescent behaviour.

While parental support is crucial for healthy development, excessive control or punitive measures can have unintended consequences, including increased risk of suicidal ideation.

In contrast to previous generations, when children often sought guidance from their parents, contemporary youth may experience a different dynamic.

Modern-day pressures, coupled with increased independence and access to technology, can lead to conflicts between parents and adolescents over issues such as social media use, academic performance and personal choices.

If this escalates into controlling or punitive behaviour, it can create a sense of isolation, shame and hopelessness, increasing the risk of suicidal thoughts.

Parents who provide a supportive environment, offer guidance and set appropriate boundaries, can play a vital role in their children’s wellbeing.

However, it is essential to strike a balance between providing guidance and fostering independence.

COMMUNICATION

To address this, it is crucial to promote open communication and understanding between parents and adolescents.

Active listening and empathy can help to build strong and supportive relationships.

Also, parents should be mindful of their own mental health and seek support if needed.

By fostering healthy relationships and prioritising mental health, we can work towards reducing the risks of suicide and creating a brighter future for our young people.

• Onesmus Shalonda is a social scientist and community activist; the views expressed here are entirely his own and are not linked to his employer